Downton Abbey actor Rob James Collier lost sleep over 'harrowing' homosexuality storyline | The Independent Downton Abbey actor Rob James Collier lost sleep over 'harrowing' homosexuality storyline Series five of the hit ITV period drama starts on Sunday 21 September Sunday 14 September 2014 15:46 BST Click to follow The Independent Culture Rob James-Collier, who plays under-butler Thomas Barrow, admitted to suffering sleepless nights over the Series 5 script Fans of Downton Abbey can expect the series to take a dark turn, thanks to a “harrowing” new storyline centred around Thomas Barrow. Rob James-Collier, who plays the sometimes sinister under-butler, admitted that he has been suffering sleepless nights over the script, which sees his character question – and try desperately to change – his sexuality. “There are mornings of those scenes when you haven’t been able to sleep at night because you are so worried about how it will go,” James-Collier told the Daily Mail . “Thomas comes right up to the abyss.” “It’s quite a harrowing storyline and I hope it is.

Because if it isn’t, I haven’t done it justice.” His quotes come just days after Hugh Bonneville – who plays Robert, Earl of Grantham in the show – said he believed the show could have another five years left to run . Alan Leech (Tom Branson) and Rob James-Collier (Tom Barrow) on the set of Downton Abbey in August 2014 “This is all written by one person and there’s only so much one person can do,” he said. “There will be an end. (Executive producer) Gareth Neame has said he reckons it will run between five and ten years, so we’ve made it to halfway.

“I think there will be natural end and I’m sure Julian will want to quit while he’s ahead.” Downton Abbey series 5 1/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Mr Bates and Anna behind bars ITV 2/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Atticus with a prostitute 3/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Andy, Mr Carson, Molesley and Thomas ITV 4/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Above and below stairs gather for the WWI memorial ITV 5/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Atticus and Lady Rose, who wears a large engagement ring ITV 6/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Lady Sinderby, Lord Sinderby and Atticus following his engagement to Lady Rose ITV 7/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Lady Mary Crawley, Master George Crawley, Baxter, Cora, Countess of Grantham, Denker, Lady Edith Crawley, Mrs Hughes, Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham, Mrs Patmore, Tom Branson, Miss Sybbie Branson and Isobel Crawley ITV

 8/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Mr Carson and as Robert, Earl of Grantham at the memorial service ITV Anna lines up as part of a police identity parade ITV 10/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Mr Bates at the WWI memorial service ITV 11/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Mrs Patmore and Daisy in the kitchen ITV 12/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Cora, Countess of Grantham 13/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Lady Mary and Lady Edith looking happy together ITV 14/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 Violet and Isobel Crawley talking at the ceremony ITV 15/102 Downton Abbey: Season 5 The Dowager Countess' new maid Denker chats with Mr Bates ITV 16/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Edith returns from London 17/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Love is in the air for Lady Rose and Atticus ITV 18/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Allen Leech

 as Tom Branson ITV 19/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Isis is sick 20/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The boys: Lord Merton, Tim Grey, Robert, Earl of Grantham and Atticus Aldridge ITV 21/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The girls: Lady Rose, Lady Mary and Mabel Lane Fox ITV 22/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Aspiring cook Daisy, played by Sophie McShera ITV 23/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Can Mabel Lane Fox (Catherine Steadman) convince Tony Gillingham (Tom Cullen) that she's the woman for him?

ITV 24/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess ITV 25/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Mary continues to look pensive. Is she any closer to deciding upon a lover?

ITV 26/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lord Merton (Douglas Reith) joins the Grantham family at the Abbey ITV 27/102 Downton Abbey series 5 There's a new face in the form of Lord Merton's son, Larry Grey, who is played by Charlie Anson ITV 28/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lily James as Lady Rose ITV 29/102 Downton Abbey series 5 David Robb as Dr Clarkson and Robert James-Collier as Thomas 30/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Tensions are high between Cora and Robert after his confrontation with Simon Bricker 31/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham 32/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The cast of Downton Abbey indulge in some racing at a Point to Point 33/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery looks like she means business as Lady Mary Crawley 34/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Catherine Steadman as Lord

 Gillinghams former lover Mabel Lane Fox 35/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Rose and Atticus strike up a friendship in Downton Abbey series 5 36/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Thomas, Molesley and Mr Carson serve drinks in Downton Abbey series 5 37/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Robert James-Collier as under-butler Thomas 38/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The Downton Abbey children, George and Sybbie play with cuddly toys 39/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley and Oliver/Zac Barker as Master George Crawley 40/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Cora, Violet and Isobel in Downton Abbey series 5 41/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The Dowager Countess and her former lover Kuragin share an intimate conversation 42/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Rose is all smiles as she talks to Charles Blake 43/102 Downton Abbey series 5

 Matt Barber as Lady Rose's new love interest Atticus ITV 44/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery plays Lady Mary in Downton Abbey series 5 episode 5 ITV 45/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Underbutler Thomas Barrow in Downton Abbey series 5 ITV 46/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Richard E Grant plays art historian Simon Bricker ITV 47/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Cora, Simon Bricker and Molesley look ominous at Downton's door ITV 48/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Sophie McShera plays maid Daisy, who tries to better herself by learning maths ITV 49/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Howard Ward plays Sergeant Willis ITV 50/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Thomas returns downstairs to speak to Daisy in episode five ITV 51/102 Downton Abbey series 5 A sullen Lady Mary sits next to her father Robert, Earl of Grantham ITV 52/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Louis Hilyer

 plays Inspector Vyner ITV 53/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Richard E Grant as Simon Bricker and Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham ITV 54/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Catherine Steadman as Mabel Lane Fox, Julian Ovenden as Charles Blake, Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley and Samantha Bond as Lady Rosamund ITV 55/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Daisy Lewis plays schoolteacher Sarah Bunting in Downton Abbey ITV 56/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lord Gillingham and Lady Mary Crawley have a heated discussion in Downton Abbey series 5 ITV 57/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary and Samantha Bond as Lady Rosamund in Downton Abbey series 5 ITV 58/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Peter Egan returns as Lady Rose's father Shrimpie ITV 59/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Richard E Grant flirts with Cora in the role of art historian Simon Bricker ITV 60/10

2 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Mary and Robert, Earl of Grantham have a serious-looking discussion in the Downton grounds ITV 61/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Mary, Robert, Earl of Grantham and Tom Branson look ready for business ITV 62/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Penelope Wilton as Isobel Crawley in Downton Abbey ITV 63/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Robert James-Collier as Thomas in Downton Abbey ITV 64/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Christopher Rozycki as Rostov and Rade Sherbedgia as Kuragin.

ITV 65/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley, Allen Leech as Tom Branson and Hugh Bonneville as Robert, Earl of Grantham study a map ITV 66/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Prince Kuragin, Isobel and Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham take a look into the past ITV 67/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery dresses up to the nines as Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey Nick Briggs 68/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Rade Sherbedgia as Kuragin, Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham, Lily James as Lady Rose, Maggie Smith as Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham, Hugh Bonneville as Robert, Earl of Grantham and Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley Nick Briggs 69/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey Nick Briggs 70/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Mary Crawley is all smiles ahead of

 her saucy weekend with Lord Gillingham Nick Briggs 71/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Jeremy Swift as Spratt in Downton Abbey series 5 Nick Briggs 72/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Howard Ward as Sergeant Willis and Brendan Coyle as John Bates as the case of valet Green comes under scrutiny again Nick Briggs 73/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Richard E Grant as Simon Bricker and Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham admire some artworks Nick Briggs 74/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Richard E Grant as Simon Bricker and Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham Nick Briggs 75/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Simon Bricker charms Cora in Downton Abbey Nick Briggs 76/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Robert, Earl of Grantham is left 'red faced and furious' when things do not go as he had planned Nick Briggs 77/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Robert James-Collier as Thomas on the telephone in Downton Abbey Nick Briggs 7

8/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Rade Sherbedgia as Kuragin and Christopher Rozycki as Rostov Nick Briggs 79/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Raquel Cassidy as Baxter 80/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Cora, Countess of Grantham, Elizabeth McGovern) and Simon Bricker (Richard E Grant) deep in conversation ITV 81/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Edith with her estranged daughter ITV 82/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Socialist school teacher Sarah Bunting (Daisy Lewis) and friend of Branson, creates tension at Downton ITV 83/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Mrs Patmore (Lesley Nicol) and Daisy (Sophie McShera)are wondering what the future holds amid the changing social and political landscape ITV 84/102 Downton Abbey series 5 The household appears transfixed by a gramophone...

ITV 85/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Mr Carson, played by Jim Butler, and Mrs Hughes (Phyllis Logan). The loyal Carson is struggling to adapt to the changing times ITV 86/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Under-butler Thomas Barrow, played by Rob James-Collier. The actor has told audiences to expect a "harrowing" storyline centred around his character's sexuality 87/102 Downton Abbey series 5 John and Anna Bates (Brendan Coyle and Joanne Froggatt) in the fifth series of Downton Abbey - how will their marriage hold out?

ITV 88/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Sophie McShera as aspirational household cook Daisy ITV 89/102 Downton Abbey series 5 For Isobel Crawley, played by Penelope Wilton, romance could be on the cards 90/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Elizabeth McGovern as Cora, Countess of Grantham, and Richard E Grant as Simon Bricker ITV 91/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Anna Chancellor as newcomer Lady Anstruther 92/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) is struggling to deal with the fallout from her illegitimate pregnancy... 93/102 Downton Abbey series 5 ...and can't keep away from her secret child 94/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Will Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) pursue a romance with Lord Gillingham (Tom Cullen)? 95/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Mary's stepbrother (Allen Leech) could also be in line for a new love...

96/102 Downton Abbey series 5 ...in the form of socialist school teacher Sarah Bunting, played by Daisy Lewis 97/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Jimmy (Ed Speleers) is the subject of Lady Anstruther's infatuation 98/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Harriet Walter will reprise her role as Lady Shackleton ITV 99/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) with her secret child Marigold... ITV 100/102 Downton Abbey series 5 ...and with the child's adoptive parents, Mr and Mrs Drewe ITV 101/102 Downton Abbey series 5 Emma Lowndes plays the farmer's wife ITV Downton Abbey: Daily Mirror plays starring role as cast film final scenes - Mirror Online TV Downton Abbey: Daily Mirror plays starring role as cast film final scenes A billboard of our very own paper was part of filming for the ITV period drama in Alnwick, Northumberland Share Get celebs updates directly to your inbox + Subscribe Thank you for subscribing!

Could not subscribe, try again laterInvalid Email The Daily Mirror played a starring role in Downton Abbey as some of the final scenes of the hit TV series were filmed today. A billboard featuring the nation's favourite paper was used to break the news 'English Marquess dies in Tangiers'. It is a plot line for the finale of the ITV series, which has kept millions glued to their sets for the past five years. The Daily Mirror played a starring role in Downton Abbey as some of the final scenes of the hit TV series were filmed today (Photo: © North News & Pictures ltd) The Earl of Grantham returns to the fictional Brancaster Castle, home of Lord Sinderby, Rose's father-in-law. It featured in the 2014 Christmas special, with Alnwick castle, Northumberland, taking centre stage. Hugh Bonneville, who plays Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham dressed in period costume on set in Alnwick, Northumberland (Photo: PA) Robert (Hugh Bonneville) is seen with a dapper top hat and overcoat on the street outside with on screen wife Countess of Grantham Cora Crawley (Elizabeth McGovern).

Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary Crawley) and Allen Leech (Tom Branson) were also seen shooting scenes. Elizabeth McGovern, who plays Cora Crawley, Countess of Grantham dressed in period costume on set in Alnwick, Northumberland for the filming of the final season of Downton Abbey (Photo: PA) The cast and crew have also been filming at Beamish Museum, Co Durham amid tight security, with the Downton producers keen to keep a lid on the how the series ends. Filming continues in Alnwick on Friday and Saturday, but is almost complete. "We have some last scenes to do here, but should be finished by the week-end," said one crew member. "There is not much work left to do." Alnwick Castle, Northumberland where filming of the final season of Downton Abbey, due to be aired in the autumn, is taking place (Photo: PA) The Granthams will be seen within the castle grounds and inside its magnificent rooms, and in the town itself. Nearby Duchess Community High School was turned into a pub, The Crown and Anchor, for the Christmas special.

This time a local shop became Briskwells newsagents, with the Daily Mirror on sale inside. The arrival of Downton caused a frenzy in the market town last year, as fans flocked to catch a glimpse of their favourite characters. View gallery In the Christmas special, we rejoined the family in the early autumn of 1924, with Geordie actor Alun Armstrong joining the cast as a guest star in the role of Stowell, the Sinderbys' butler. For filming in Beamish, a section of the museum was dedicated to the Downton crew, away from the gaze of visitors. Video Loading Actor Hugh Bonneville dismisses plans for a Downton Abbey spin-off and hits out at health and safety culture in TV drama - ITV News ITV Report 14 April 2015 at 5:32am Actor Hugh Bonneville dismisses plans for a Downton Abbey spin-off and hits out at health and safety culture in TV drama Photo: Actor Hugh Bonneville has dismissed plans for a Downton Abbey spin-off and hit out at the health and safety culture plaguing TV drama.

The ITV period drama bows out at the end of the next series despite attracting millions of viewers around the globe. Its executive producer Gareth Neame has suggested that there could be a Downton film while its creator Julian Fellowes has even mooted a TV spin-off, set in the 1970s. But Bonneville, who plays the drama's Earl of Grantham, had a sarcastic response when asked about the possibility. "Great idea. I think we should combine those two thoughts. Let's make a film set in the 1970s in which Lord Grantham wears flares and a kipper tie. I can see it now," he told Radio Times magazine. He said that filming the final scenes would be emotional. "Series five was supposed to be the last so this one is a bonus and it feels right for the story. "Of course it's sad. We're filming the final episodes now. When we finish there'll be tears," he said. Bonneville said that Downton Abbey, filmed at Highclere Castle, and other dramas had been beset by health and safety culture.

"It happens on any film or TV set these days and it's 10 times worse than it was 10 years ago," he said. The actor's BBC-based comedy W1A - in which he plays Ian Fletcher, the hapless broadcaster's head of values - depicts a corporation obsessed with health and safety. But asked whether health and safety culture had an impact on Downton, Bonneville said: "Oh sure. If someone is going to look into a mirror you need to fill out a long risk assessment form about possible damage to their irises. "I'm exaggerating of course, but that is what (W1A's creator) John Morton has tapped into, the spread of a risk-averse culture and the way we've adopted all these acronyms, targets, hurdles, barriers and red tape rather than just getting on with the job of making programmes." The actor also called on the Government to do more to support the arts. "I did most of my early work at the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company. Dozens of our leading actors and writers would say the same," he said.

"When the financial crisis hit Germany in 2008, they increased their arts budget by 8% because they recognised it as part of the engine room of the economy. "Why can't our politicians recognise that the arts are not an indulgence but an industry that employs tens of thousands of people." And he said that he was a firm supporter of the licence fee. "I love the hidden joys of coming across a programme on the World Service or BBC4 you wouldn't find anywhere else. You couldn't run either of those services on commercial lines. "Working on Downton Abbey, we have had a lot of contact with PBS in America and they're constantly on their knees with a begging bowl. They really struggle.

I'd hate to see us going down that route." Last updated Tue 14 Apr 2015 Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham | 'Downton Abbey' Stars Out of Costume | XFINITY 'Downton Abbey' Stars Out of Costume 4 of 52 Send to Friend Robert Crawley, the Earl of Grantham Lord Grantham is always the picture of sophistication at Downton dinner parties, but the actor who plays him doesn't mind a little facial hair in the off-season. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. More from this Slideshow What Do They Rea... The world has fallen in love with the British television series "Downton Abbey," which follows the daily pomp and circumstance of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in early 1900s England. But what do the stars of the wildly popular franchise look like when they leave the pomp and circumstance behind? The answer might surprise you. Keep clicking to see the Crawley family (and their humble servants) in modern day attire.

âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Mary Crawle... The eldest Crawley daughter, Lady Mary, has been both lucky and unlucky in love, but the actress who plays her has no problems turning heads on the red carpet. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Mary Crawle... Michelle Dockery has graced television and the stage with her talents, and she's now making the leap to the big screen. Dockery appeared in last year's science-fiction thriller "Self/Less" opposite Ryan Reynolds and Oscar winner Ben Kingsley. She is slated to appear in two more films this year. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Jason Merritt/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Robert Crawley, ... Lord Grantham is always the picture of sophistication at Downton dinner parties, but the actor who plays him doesn't mind a little facial hair in the off-season.

âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Robert Crawley (... Hugh Bonneville has been acting since the late 1980s and had roles in "Tomorrow Never Dies" and "Notting Hill" before becoming a regular face on television. He most recently appeared in the 2014 film "Paddington," and is currently filming "Viceroy's House," which will be released this year. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Frazer Harrison/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Cora Crawley, th... The mother of the Crawley family, Lady Grantham keeps it classy in her elegant dress, but the woman who brings her to life isn't afraid to show a little skin now and then. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Cora Crawley (El...

Elizabeth McGovern first appeared on film in the 1980 Robert Redford movie "Ordinary People." She recently appeared in the drama films "Unexpected" and "Woman in Gold." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Angela Weiss/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Edith Crawl... Lady Edith, the Crawley's middle child, constantly feels like she's being overlooked, but no one would overlook the star who plays her. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Edith Crawl... Laura Carmichael made her acting debut with "Downton Abbey." Since then she has had a brief scene in "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" and appeared in the recent films "Madame Bovary" and "Burn Burn Burn." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Jason Merritt/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Sybil Crawl...

The actress who plays the strong-willed youngest Crawley, Lady Sybil, is stunning both on and off the screen. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Sybil Crawl... Jessica Brown Findlay's stock is on the rise. She was most recently seen opposite Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy in "Victor Frankenstein." Findlay will appear in the film "This Beautiful Fantastic" later this year. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Tim P. Whitby/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Violet Crawley, ... The sharp-tongued Dowager Countess (mother of Lord Grantham) rarely smiles on screen, but the legend who brings her to life has no qualms about showing some teeth. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Violet Crawley (...

Maggie Smith, who may be better known as Professor Minerva McGonagall from the "Harry Potter" film series, made her professional acting debut in 1955 and would go on to win two Academy Awards. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Tim Whitby/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Matthew Crawley Beloved Matthew Crawley, cousin (and, um, husband) to Lady Mary Crawley, is a fan favorite, but you might not recognize him walking down the street. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Matthew Crawley ... Dan Stevens now rocks darker hair and a beard. He recently played Sir Lancelot in "Night at the Museum 3." You'll be seeing much more of him in the coming years. He's slated to appear as Beast in the live action adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast" opposite "Harry Potter" star Emma Watson.

âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Larry Busacca/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Isobel Crawley Isobel Crawley, mother of Matthew Crawley, is constantly butting heads with the Dowager Countess. That's small potatoes compared to the zombies this actress faced in another project. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Isobel Crawley (... Penelope Wilton is a 48-year veteran of stage and screen. Aside from "Downton Abbey," she may be best known for playing Simon Pegg's mom Barbara in "Shaun of the Dead." Wilton will also appear in the movie "The BFG" later this year. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Larry Busacca/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Tom Branson Crawley chauffeur Tom Branson jumped from steerage to first class after falling in love with and marrying Sybil Crawley.

As it turns out, that baby face is not created with special effects. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Tom Branson (All... Beyond "Downton," Allen Leech has gotten very little face time with American audiences, but he's been appearing on television in the U.K. since 2000. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Larry Busacca/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Rose MacCla... Violet's rebellious great niece Lady Rose MacClare proves to quite a handful when she comes to live with the Crawleys, but it pales in comparison to the stir this actress is about to make in Hollywood. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Lady Rose MacCla...

Lily James' filmography is light, and includes a film appearance in "Wrath of the Titans" and a stint on the British series "Secret Diary of a Call Girl." She recently starred as the titular character in Disney's live-action "Cinderella." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Stuart Wilson/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Carson Butler Charles Carson is the final word on all matters relating to the Crawley's service staff. Keen to maintain the old ways, it's funny to see the actor who plays him with a hair (or 100) out of place. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Carson (Jim ... Jim Carter is a highly skilled theater actor who has been appearing on stage since the late '60s. He also has more than 130 television and film credits to his name, including "Shakespeare In Love" and "The Golden Compass." He is married to actress Imelda Staunton.

âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Jason Merritt/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mrs. Hughes The good cop to Mr. Carson's bad cop, housekeeper Elsie Hughes has become a "Downton" favorite for her kindness and compassion. The actress who plays her is 58, but shaves decades off her looks when dolling up for the red carpet. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mrs. Hughes (Phy... Phyllis Logan is nearly unrecognizable outside of "Downton." The actress has credits stretching back to 1977, but her career has been mostly confined to the U.K. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Stephen Lovekin/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Bates After serving in the British Army with Lord Grantham, Mr. John Bates came to Downton to serve as the patriarch's continuously mysterious valet.

Bates' tumultous times at the Abbey make it not so shocking to see the actor who plays him unkempt. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Bates (Brend... Brendan Coyle has been acting professionally since 1992. In 2011, he appeared in U.S. theaters in the John Cusack movie "The Raven." He is slated to appear in two films this year. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Gareth Cattermole/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Anna Bates Anna Bates, wife of John Bates and Lady's Maid to Mary Crawley, is a beauty among the house staff, but most fans of the show have no idea just how gorgeous the modestly dressed star who plays her can be. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Anna Bates (Joan...

Joanne Froggatt is a true stunner on the red carpet, and has been working on British TV since the late '90s. She appeared on 11 episodes of the BBC series "Robin Hood," but has been relatively invisible to American audiences otherwise. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Ian Gavan/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mrs. Patmore When head cook Beryl Patmore isn't reigning in her love-struck staff members, she's worrying about almost everything else. Thankfully, the actress who plays her seems to find time for a smile. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mrs. Patmore (Le... Lesley Nicol has appeared on more than 30 television series in the U.K., including a BBC adaptation of "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Jason Merritt/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

Daisy Mason Cranky (but adorable) kitchen maid Daisy Mason is constantly covered in flour and losing in love. You won't believe how she looks outside of Mrs. Patmore's kitchen! âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Daisy Mason (Sop... Sophie McShera is not well known to American audiences, but she's on the verge of making a name for herselfâSophie starred as wicked stepsister Drizella Tremaine in Disney's remake of "Cinderella." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Thomas Barrow Scheming and conniving underbutler Thomas Barrow is, perhaps, the most disliked person at Downton. But Barrow is a bit more likeable when you see the actor who plays him. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Thomas Barrow (R...

He smiles! Rob James-Collier made a name for himself in the U.K. as the hunky star of a soap opera called "Coronation Street." Outside of "Downton," he remains relatively unknown to audiences in the States. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Molesley The perpetually bumbling Joseph Molesley was once a valet for Matthew Crawley before a series of events brought him to Downton Abbey as both a footman and butler. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Mr. Molesley (Ke... English actor Kevin Doyle has been performing on stage and screen since 1982. This "Downton" star was recently seen on U.S. screens as Joseph of Arimathea in NBC's "A.D.

The Bible Continues." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS, Ethan Miller/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Miss Baxter An acquaintance of Mr. Barrow, Phyllis Baxter was brought to Downton Abbey for the sole purpose of spying for the cranky underbutler. She has a secret... but will she tell it? âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Miss Baxter (Raq... Raquel Cassidy has been acting since 1997. The Brit has appeared on both stage and screen, with notable roles in the series "Teachers," "Moving Wallpaper" and "Lead Balloon." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS, Tim P. Whitby/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. James Kent Downstairs heartthrob James "Jimmy" Kent is first footman at Downton Abbey and the lust object of his co-workers (both male and female). Is he just as dreamy in modern day clothing?

âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. James Kent (Ed S... Ed Speleers got his big break in the title role of the 2006 fantasy flick "Eragon." The movie failed to spark a franchise, but Speleers' career has continued with roles in films such as "Plastic" and in the upcoming film "Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS, Anthony Harvey/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Alfred Nugent Footman Alfred Nugent has been the heartbroken and the heartbreaker at Downton Abbey. The actor who plays him has likely had more experience as the latter. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Alfred Nugent (M...

Matt Milne made his acting debut in the 2011 Steven Spielberg movie "War Horse," and went on to appear in "Wrath of the Titans" the following year.âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Stuart Wilson/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Ivy Stuart The arrival of kitchen maid Ivy Stuart caused quite a stir among Downton's young footmen. And it's safe to say Daisy would be none too pleased by the boy's reaction to her glamorous look on the red carpet. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Ivy Stuart (Cara... "Downton Abbey" is Cara Theobold's acting debut. She has since also appeared in the BBC Three series "Together." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Angela Weiss/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Miss O'Brien The only person who smiles less than Mr. Barrow is Lady Grantham's personal maid Miss Sarah O'Brien.

However, the actress who plays her seems pleasant enough. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Miss O'Brien (Si... Siobhan Finneran has spent more than 20 years making appearances on British television. Among her few movie credits is a role in the 2013 British drama "The Selfish Giant." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photos: ITV/PBS, Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Anthony Foyle, t... Anthony Foyle, a.k.a. Tony Gillingham, a.k.a. Lord Gillingham, is a well-to-do childhood friend of Lady Mary, and one of her many suitors. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Anthony Foyle (T... Welsh actor Tom Cullen made his debut in the 2006 film "Cravings," and has enjoyed success on screen ever since.

He won a British Independent Film Award for his performance in the 2011 movie "Weekend," and booked "Downton" shortly after. âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS, Jason Merritt/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Sarah Bunting Downton village schoolteacher Sarah Bunting has strong political views (to the dismay of many), but may have even stronger feelings for Tom Branson (to the dismay of many).âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast. Sarah Bunting (D... A relative newcomer, British actress Daisy Lewis has gotten off to a fast start with roles in films such as "Lotus Eater" and "Pusher," as well as a guest spot on "Doctor Who." She was recently seen on American screens in the History Channel miniseries "Sons of Liberty." âXFINITY Entertainment Staff (Photo: ITV/PBS, Frazer Harrison/Getty) The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Comcast.

Hugh Bonneville - IMDb IMDb View Resume | Official Photos » Hugh Bonneville was born on November 10, 1963 in Paddington, London, England as Hugh Richard Bonneville Williams. He is an actor, known for Downton Abbey (2010), Iris (2001) and Notting Hill (1999). He has been married to Lucinda Williams since November 4, 1998. They have one child. See full bio » Born: a list of 22 people created 31 Dec 2013 a list of 45 people created 10 Sep 2014 a list of 40 people created 11 months ago a list of 35 people created 8 months ago a list of 40 people created 2 months ago Do you have a demo reel? Add it to your IMDbPage How much of Hugh Bonneville's work have you seen? User Polls Nominated for 1 Golden Globe. Another 5 wins & 21 nominations.

See more awards » Known For Downton Abbey Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham (2010-2015) 2016 Walliams & Friend (TV Series) Various 2016 Our Ex-Wife (TV Series) Narrator 2015-2016 Sofia the First (TV Series) Book Narrator 2016 The Hollow Crown (TV Series) Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester - Henry VI Part 1 (2016) ... Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester 2015-2016 Galavant (TV Series) 2015 Silent Hours (TV Series) Commander William Calthorpe 2015 Stick Man (TV Short) Santa (voice) 2013 Da Vinci's Demons (TV Series) Duke of Milan 2012 Mr. Stink (TV Movie) Mr.

Stink 2012 Getting On (TV Series) Philip Moore 2010 Legally Mad (TV Movie) Gordon Hamm 2005 The Rotters' Club (TV Series) Voice of Adult Ben 2003 Hear the Silence (TV Movie) Dr. Andrew Wakefield 2003 Thursday the 12th (TV Movie) Brin Hopper 2002 Tipping the Velvet (TV Mini-Series) Ralph Banner 2002 Midsomer Murders (TV Series) Hugh Barton 2002 The Biographer (TV Movie) Eric 2002 The Gathering Storm (TV Movie) Ivo Pettifer 1999 Murder Most Horrid (TV Series) Inspector Dawson 1998 The Scold's Bridle (TV Series) Tim Duggan - Episode #1.1 (1998) ...

Tim Duggan 1998 Mosley (TV Series) 1997 See You Friday (TV Series) Daniel 1997 Holding the Baby (TV Series) Gordon Muir (II) (Series 2) (1998) 1996 Bugs (TV Series) 1994 Between the Lines (TV Series) Henry Oakes 1994 Mystery!: Cadfael (TV Series) Daniel Aurifaber 1994 Peak Practice (TV Series) Dominic Kent 1993 Stalag Luft (TV Movie) Sqdn. Ldr. Barton (as Richard Bonneville) - Episode #2.6 (1993) ... Captain (as Richard Bonneville) 1991 Dodgem (TV Series) - Episode #1.1 (1991) ... Rick Bayne (as Richard Bonneville) 1990 Chancer (TV Series) - Weapons from the Wall (1990) ... Jas (as Richard Bonneville) Hide - Comedy Gold (2015) ...

(performer: "Lords of the Sea", "Togetherness (Reprise)" - uncredited) Hide 2014 Julie Walters: A Life on Screen (TV Movie documentary) (With Thanks) Hide 2016 Speeding Wars (TV Mini-Series documentary) Himself - Narrator 2016 National Television Awards (TV Special) Himself 2015-2016 Live!

with Kelly (TV Series) Himself - Guest / Himself 2013-2015 The View (TV Series) Himself / Himself - Downtown Abbey 2015 The Talk (TV Series) Himself 2014-2015 Good Morning America (TV Series) Himself - Guest 2015 All Change at Longleat (TV Mini-Series documentary) Himself - Narrator 2015 Animal Mums (TV Series documentary) Himself 2015 The Secret World of Lego (TV Movie documentary) Narrator (voice) 2015 Red Nose Day (TV Special) Himself 2015 BBC News 8pm Summary (TV Series short) Himself 2012-2015 The Hotel (TV Series documentary) Himself - Narrator 2015 Shakespeare Uncovered (TV Mini-Series documentary) Himself 2015 Timeshift (TV Series documentary) Himself - Narrator 2014 The Chew (TV Series) Himself - Downton Abbey - Old-Fashioned Holiday Favorites (2014) ...

Himself - Downton Abbey 2014 Today (TV Series) 2014 The Greatest Ever War Films (TV Movie documentary) Himself - Narrator (voice) 2014 TB: Return of the Plague (TV Movie documentary) Himself 2014 Top Gear (TV Series) Himself - Special Guest 2014 National Television Awards (TV Special) Himself - Presenter 2013 Doctor Who: The Doctors Revisited (TV Mini-Series documentary) Himself 2012 By Royal Appointment (TV Movie documentary) Himself - Narrator (voice) 2012 World's Most Dangerous Roads (TV Series documentary) Himself 2012 Charlie Rose (TV Series) Himself - Guest 2009-2012 Country House Rescue (TV Series) Himself - Narrator 2012 Just a Minute (TV Series) Himself 2012 National Television Awards (TV Special) Himself - Presenter 2011 Stephen Fry's 100 Greatest Gadgets (TV Movie documentary) Himself 2011 Doctor Who Confidential (TV Series documentary) Himself 2011 Elizabeth Taylor: A Tribute (TV Movie documentary)

 Himself - Narrator (voice) 2010-2011 The One Show (TV Series) Himself - Guest - 1970s (2010) ...

Himself - Narrator (voice) - 1960s (2010) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - World War Two (2010) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - 1930s (2010) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - Edwardian (2010) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) 2010 Dispatches (TV Series documentary) Himself - Narrator - Luton (2009) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - Clacton-on-Sea (2009) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - Margate (2009) ... Himself - Narrator (voice) - Blackpool (2009) ...

Himself - Narrator (voice) 2008 Saturday Kitchen (TV Series) Himself 2007 Five Days: Making Five Days (Video documentary short) Himself / DSI Iain Barclay 2007 Why Birds Sing (TV Movie documentary) Himself - Narrator 2007 The Real Mr Pooter (TV Movie documentary) Himself 2002-2005 Richard & Judy (TV Series) Himself 2004 This Morning (TV Series) Himself 2002 Cinema 3 (TV Series) Himself 2001 A Look at Iris (Video documentary short) Himself 2015 Britain's Best Loved Sitcoms (TV Series documentary) Comedy Role Personal Details Other Works: He acted in William Shakespeare 's play, "The Two Gentlemen of Verona", in a Royal Shakespeare Company production at the Barbican Theatre in London, England with Hugh Bonneville , Barry Lynch , Sean Murray , Clare Holman , Constance Byrne , 'Josette Bushell-Mingo', Guy Henry , Richard Moore , Terence Wilton and Stuart J. Wolstenholme (...

See more » Publicity Listings: 1 Interview | 2 Articles | 3 Magazine Cover Photos | See more » Official Sites:

Question: Which actor plays the Earl of Grantham in the ITV series 'Downton Abbey'?
Answer: HUGH BONNEVILLE